The battle against the bulge and unhealthy conditions in Oklahoma continues to be fiercely fought by health champions and leaders who will be recognized for their efforts at the Certified Healthy Oklahoma awards luncheon scheduled next month in Oklahoma City.

The program will honor award recipients from across the state on Thursday, Feb. 28, at 11:30 a.m. at the Cox Convention Center. Award recipients will represent businesses, restaurants, schools, communities, college campuses and career technology centers that have responded to the challenge to Eat Better, Move More and Be Tobacco Free.

This year 979 applications were submitted from groups throughout the state and 755 award winners will be receiving the annual “Certified Healthy” status.The awards ceremony will be an opportunity to recognize and celebrate those individuals who are working to improve employee health, child health and community health in Oklahoma. Among the special guests attending will be Gov. Mary Fallin, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma President M. Ted Haynes, and State Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Cline.

Keynote speaker will be Dan Heath, author of “SWITCH: How to Change Things When Change is Hard.” Prior to the awards luncheon, attendees will have the opportunity to attend a workshop featuring Heath. The workshop will begin at 9 a.m. at the Cox Convention Center and the registration fee is $10.00.

According to the United Health Foundation, Oklahoma is ranked 43rd for overall health; an improved state health ranking from previous years.“The Certified Healthy Oklahoma program encourages health-focused behaviors and policies in communities, schools, businesses, campuses and restaurants that undoubtedly are helping improve health and the quality of life in Oklahoma,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Cline.

Tickets for the Certified Healthy Oklahoma workshop and luncheon can be purchased separately at www.regonline.com/certifiedhealthyoklahoma. A limited number of tickets are available, so early registration is encouraged. Registration deadline is Feb. 15, 2013.

The Certified Healthy Oklahoma programs are a partnership effort of the Oklahoma State Department of Health, the State Chamber, the Oklahoma Academy for State Goals, the Oklahoma Turning Point Council and numerous other partners who are helping to Shape Our Future and shape the future of all Oklahomans.